Monday 28 February 2011

Book Review: Food To Fight Cancer

Foods to Fight CancerFoods to Fight Cancer by Richard Béliveau

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


I love this book, because the very last chapter quotes; "variety is the spice of life", and things like; "moderation", which I am such a believer in, especially when it comes to food.



I bought this book because in May 2010 my sister (who was 22 years old) was diagnosed with Leukaemia.



It turned our family upside down - let alone my sister's life - and I didn't know how to help.  



I've always believed that diet is important in life, possibly with constant brain washing from my father who is very health conscious, that what goes in must come out (i.e. you can't feed kids crap/processed foods and then complain they have behavioural issues.  You can't eat a packet of biscuits a day and not expect to put on weight), and wanted to see if food could help with her fight against cancer.



When I say diet, I don't mean 'dieting' to lose weight, I mean, what we eat day to day, every day, for the rest of our lives.  Our diet.  Like a cow's diet is grass, humans should have a balanced diet.  I'm not a believer in 'dieting', in Weight Watchers, Slim Fast, Atkins... (those are the ones that stick in my mind, but I'm sure there are more).  I believe in everything in moderation - and exercise (which the book also endorses).   



This book is not telling you to become a vegan, or vegetarian, it's emphasising the importance of a well balanced diet made up of whole foods, cooking recipes from scratch, not turning to "industrially prepared and processed foods" (that have lost all their goodness and contain too much fat, salt and sugar).  The odd treat, to feed our craving for foods rich in fat and sugar is okay - occasionally! - but generally, to eat healthily and to include the foods they've researched (plus all other fruit and vegetables), proven to contain anti-cancer molecules, into your diet.  Red wine and good-quality dark chocolate are included in this list!



The first chapter is shocking.  Why are people afraid of flying when they are at greater risk of dying of cancer? (You have a 1 in 3 chance of dying from cancer, where as there is a 1 in 3,000,000 chance of dying in a plane crash).



The last section looks at supplements and how it's the actual food that helps prevent cancer.  I particularly liked this;



"You cannot eat just anything and then get off the hook by taking a pill".



Good point!  There is more to fruit and vegetables than their vitamins!



This book does have some 'science' speak to it (it's written by scientists), but it is perfectly understandable, as long as you don't have to try and read the 'big words' out loud.  I found it fascinating, the history of some of the food and it's origins - brilliantly researched book.



If you are interested in diet and health generally, this is a book for you.  If you are in remission from cancer (in any shape or form - it describes leukaemia as a liquid tumour) and want to increase "every possible chance to prevent the disease's recurrence", this is a book for you.



If you're currently fighting cancer, this is a book for you.  It might just help...  Surely, it's worth the try?



I think everybody should read this book, whether you're afraid of cancer or not - it's an eye-opener to the Western world and its very poor diet. 



(n.b. Text in quote marks have been taken from the book).



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Friday 25 February 2011

Book Review: Want To Know A Secret? by Sue Moorcroft

Want to Know a Secret?Want to Know a Secret? by Sue Moorcroft

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Sue really does create delicious heroes.  James is the support mechanism in his family, and you find yourself really empathising with him.  



The secrets just keep coming...  Diane gets a wake up call in life basically.  She learns to fight back and take charge, though still managing to put her family first, like James, which creates a great conflict for their relationship.  And we all LOVE conflict!  But I loved Diane, enjoyed watching her get stronger and stronger.



As I've seen someone else review, Sue does keep the story real.  We're reading characters that we can relate to (with a touch of fantasy as obviously we want to escape real life, too).  And her little plot twists are great.



I really enjoyed reading this book, Sue has a wonderful way of telling a story, lovely descriptions without over doing it.  Again, there are some ups and downs, and laugh out loud moments (well I laughed heartily at times).



I have to admit, Starting Over is still my favourite of Sue's novels (yet to read All That Mullarkey, but it's on my bookshelf waiting) but this is a close second.  I loved Starting Over for different reasons.



James doesn't ever get fully described (apart from his eyes and killer smile), which is good, because you get to put your own image in there, and his actions show how he's an attractive man really.  But I felt he was not on the page as much as Ratty was in Starting Over...  And Ratty was a bit devious, which I liked (because every girl loves a bad boy). 



We get to see inside Tamzin's head occasionally, and though it was good for the story, I missed not being with Diane or James.  Though, Sue's sub-hero, George is just great, too.  (Two heroes for the price of one - yay!)



(Gosh this was rather hard to write without putting any spoilers in!  I try not to spoiler, just want to tell you how good it was and recommend to read).



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Wednesday 23 February 2011

Book Review: Stephen King On Writing

On WritingOn Writing by Stephen King

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


This is the first ever Stephen King book I've read, and in some ways I really want to go and read his stuff, and in other ways, knowing how he described his accident, I don't.  I felt sick  - and scared.


Some really good advice given that I will try to remember.  He had a great way of explaining things, and it's full of encouragement.



Thoroughly recommend it.  Interesting to see how he started out in life.  It's an autobiography plus a writing guide.  The autobiography really explains how he got his ideas through life experiences.  It won't give you the 'how to write like Stephen King' but it will give you what you want to hear - it's okay to write!


I have to say, the short story at the end (Jumper by Gareth Addams)... well, if you've ever worked in retail you'll understand it.


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Oh and book total up to SEVEN!

I'm Making Up For It By Baking

Half term is proving not to be very productive on the writing front.  Boys are home, and although they've been playing rather well, of course they still need entertaining.

Yesterday we were out with Grandad Ron for the afternoon.  I thought we'd go to the Helicopter Museum and I'd be able to use it as my last piece towards my 7th assignment - it could be classed as an exhibition!  However that was closed (so I am still stuck on my bloomin' assignment), so we walked the seafront instead, and went to the new play area.  It got some fresh air into the boys lungs! 

Today, around the housework that needed to be done, I made some cakes with the boys that they decorated, and then a Victoria sponge.

I've been reading a lot in the evenings, (as you may tell by my Twitter and Facebook updates) but last night I did manage to finish a ghost story, which I'll consider entering into Writing Magazine's short story competition.  Though I'm not confident about it, not sure if it's spooky or original enough. 

My RSI seems to still be niggling, (hence a lot of reading) and I've found that Windows has speech recognition software - thanks to a friend!  I plugged in the headset I got from some software I bought years ago, (which is not likely to work with Vista) and was off.  However, it needs training more to my voice, because it's not understanding me, and is taking longer than if I typed.  But it's a start!

I'm really struggling at the moment, one thing or the other, I'm not putting enough into writing.  I'm failing with the magazine reading - the ones I need to research for my assignments - I'd much rather be reading a good book.  I've just got mixed feeling about it all - what should I be doing to improve my chances of publishing and all that.  Born worrier that I am, I suppose I'm anxious that I want to make sure I'm doing everything I can to get there. 

Fearing that non-fiction isn't really my niche I have bought some magazines (that I need to research) for the short story market.  But I keep thinking, get these four assignments out of the way, and I'll be on my way to study fiction - so I've not made time yet to even look at these.

Stephen King (On Writing) says it shouldn't be for the money.  I'll never give up writing.  I love it, and have enough stories I can fall back to in my fan fic realm.  However, I do want to become a writer as a job - I've realised now what I want to do in life!  So yes, I want the money.  I don't expect to be the next J K Rowling, or even Stephen King, but a small income doing something I enjoy would be a dream come true.

Monday 21 February 2011

Book Review: Storm's Heart by Rachel Lyndhurst

Storm's HeartStorm's Heart by Rachel Lyndhurst

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Rachel's début novel is a right storm!  The minute Kizzy and Andreas are on the page together, it gets interesting.



I did enjoy their fiery battles - I do love good conflict in romance; Andreas being an arrogant bastard at times and Kizzy defending herself - quite rightly so.  But Andreas does redeem himself, realising his actions are unacceptable, he just needs to learn that throwing money at Kizzy isn't really what she wants.  And I was glad to see he saw through Kizzy's change in confidence, otherwise it felt a tiny bit unrealistic.



A sizzling read with Andreas' determination to get Kizzy in his bed.



The switching of POVs in the first couple of chapters I found a little jarring, which sorted itself out, and there was a tendency to overuse a 'volcanic' description.  Those things may have stuck out for me because I'm a writer, and read books very differently myself.  That said, not enough to put me off the book.  I didn't really want to put it down - but real life at times demanded it!



Great story if you fancy being swept off your feet to Greece by a gorgeous, Greek billionaire and be taken through an emotional ending.



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Thursday 17 February 2011

Tenacious KT - Now Blogging Near You

On May 28th, 2010 my family's life was turned upside down - my little sister (who's not that little actually, as she's taller than me) was diagnosed with Leukaemia.

She has now started a blog - tenacious-kt, ready to start talking about her experiences, the people she's met, so I thought I'd put something on here for those who may want to follow her.

Wednesday 16 February 2011

Book Review: Becoming The Tycoon's Bride by Patricia Thayer & Liz Fielding

Becoming the Tycoon's BrideBecoming the Tycoon's Bride by Patricia Thayer

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


This book has two stories - and I will leave reviews accordingly.

(I can't seem to find these books on Goodreads singularly - I usually like to leave links on those too).

The Tycoon's Marriage Bid by Patricia Thayer

4 Stars

Started reading 12 Feb 2011, finished 13 Feb 2011 - I believe these are shorter stories (this was only 96 pages - 9 chapters plus an epilogue).

I really did love the fire and the chemistry between this hero and heroine.  I really liked Ellie, she was feisty and Hugh had a good battle on his hands, which caused a nice conflict - we like conflict!  From the off, Ellie had her guard up, seeing Hugh as the enemy.  But Hugh's weakness was his instant attraction to Ellie.  I also enjoyed how her grandfather helped meddle a little with their relationship.

It didn't quite have the sizzle sensual factor that Liz Fielding pulls off, but there were some tender and emotional moments for a short story.  An enjoyable read.



Chosen As The Sheikh's Wife by Liz Fielding

4 Stars

Started reading 13 February (I think, finished 16 February 2011

Again, another short story, only 87 pages.  In fact, I would have liked this story to be a little longer.  I know Liz is just great for her frustratingly good sensual, tender touch to the pages - frustrating in the sense you want the hero and heroine to just get it on - and this story in some ways lacked it a little, due to its length.

But you can't not love Sheikh Fayad al Kuwani, from the instant he's on the page with Violet, he's her protector, a true hero.  A real prince charming!

Liz is always great at making her strong heroes the loving, caring types.  It's hard to put my finger on it, but I've read so many where the heroes are verging on being bullies, whereas hers know what they want, and want to get it, yet they have a tendency to sweep the heroine off her feet, seducing her, in their 'how' to get it.

Great story, shame it was a bit short. I would have liked to have seen more of Violet and Fayad together as husband and wife, before the true marriage ceremony.  The beginning of the last chapter was more narrative, telling, rather than showing (but I realise that it's due to the length of the book and maybe just me wanting to be indulged).  However, there is a twist and a lovely seductive ending to this story, which made me wish it was a Blaze!

As for the book on the whole, I've read two-in-one romances, and always found one story to be weaker than the other, possibly even disappointing, yet both of these books did deliver the romance factor - at least for me!  I enjoyed both stories.



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Tuesday 15 February 2011

Now I Feel Like I'm In The 21st Century

Last night, to my great surprise, my hubby had bought me a Kindle (along with Hotel Chocolat Chocolates and a novel by Harriet Evans, The Love of Her Life).  Now, usually, we don't do extravagant presents on one another, even at Christmas and birthdays we don't go mad.

He had thought about getting it for me for Christmas, but apparently I was all, "do I really need a Kindle?"

Then, I purchased my first ebook Liar's Waltz written by my friend, Becky Black, her first published novel only available currently in ebook, and had to sit at my PC to read it.  All very well, but as I suffer with RSI, and my back can play up (if I've sat here too long - it's just not comfortable) I didn't feel very relaxed (which is what you do to read) reading at my PC.

Last night I had to have a little play and purchased Storm's Heart by Rachel Lyndhurst.  Her début novel, and the launch of Embrace Books yesterday!  

I've now put The Wedding Favour on there, so I can read it like a book, before I get down to the nitty gritty of editing.  So hopefully, my Kindle will also be a useful tool with my writing - and keep me away from my PC at times.  Which I need, even though I so want to be a published writer, I know that I will have to manage my time at the PC.  But being my own boss, I can do that.  It's a lot different to the years I worked in an office when I had to be sat at my desk.

Don't get me wrong, I love a good book!  I won't be ditching the paper variety.  However, I'm having to read a lot more lately, taking this writing lark seriously, and there are some books that I'm likely to read then charity shop/pass on.  (Especially my guilty pleasure of a Mills and Boon).  So an ebook means cheaper to buy and easier to store.

So now all I need is one of those smart phones, (I'm thinking a HTC Desire if I can get that free with renewing my phone contract) and I will well and truly feel gadgetry adequate.

Gosh, and to think Sunday I was talking to an oldish couple (I wouldn't class them as elderly) who'd just bought their very first microwave.

Sunday 13 February 2011

How Do You Write?

Today, in my break at work, I started reading Writing Magazine's March issue.  I was glad to see another article from Bob Gale and David Baboulene, using the example of Back To The Future, illustrating the development of ideas into a story.  All very interesting, and I haven't finished reading it yet (my break ended far too quickly).  But one thing I read and I sat there nodding, agreeing, 'yes I do that':

"If you don't know where the story is heading, you can't aim towards it..." 

I agree with that statement 110%.  When I write, I do have a vague idea of where the story is ending, not necessarily exactly how, but I do have some shape or form of how it needs to end in my mind.  (As I write romance that normally means happy ending).  And usually, I need to know before I start writing.  The middle can be a fuzzy mess, but I do like to know where I am heading. 

Then, coming home and reading Stephen King On Writing, he discusses letting the characters lead the story.  He 'distrusts' plot.  I believe he could be talking 'seats of pants' writing, not that he calls it that.  He talks about not neccesarily knowing the ending, and that if he's not sure how it's going to end while writing it, imagine what the readers might be feeling... which I suppose works great for a suspense novel.

"I want you to understand that my basic belief about the making of stories is that they pretty much make themselves."  (p188)


So two pieces of contrasting information there - slightly.

The article in Writing Magazine is looking at creating a story through a questioning process and putting it onto index cards so you can spread out your story and move stuff around etc. I admittedly don't work like that, though maybe I should - I tend to make lists on my PC.  Stephen King still says ask the questions, if an idea pops into your head, but as you write, let the characters do it their way.  Sometimes it goes the way he'd visualised it, sometimes it doesn't.  I can agree with that too, as I've had scenes/ideas pop out of nowhere which the character has helped lead.

I suppose this is a case of taking what you can from advice and using what works for you.  I'm not great at sitting down and outlining a story, but sometimes that just feels like wasted time, I want to write it, damn it!  I can brainstorm a little, or if (while doing the washing up or in the shower) an idea comes in my head, I'm quick to note it down, and in my little head I'll be expanding that scene or playing it over and over.  But I have stared at a blank screen and created the next chapter, scene, or even 1,000 words to a short story.

So how do you write?  If I've understood this all correctly, and admittedly, I feel a bit of a novice at all of this, never sure if I'm understanding things correctly about plot lead or character lead (I may have misunderstood Stephen King), but it seems I'm a cross between 'seats of the pants' writer, and a bit of a planner.

All I know is that I like - and love - to write.

Saturday 12 February 2011

I Am Reading, I Mean Researching

A Moment In Time by Sheena McRae 

Another pocket novel down, and it's a shame they're not on Goodreads, because I'd make them count towards my book total!

I bought this one a little while ago, and as the title suggests, I've had it in my handbag (rather than my pocket) and have been dipping into it.  Tonight I finished it.

I searched the internet hoping for a scanned copy however couldn't find one, so a photo from my phone is the best I can do. Must get a scanner!

I wanted to research what sort of stories got published in pocket novels really.  I probably need to buy another so that I've read three. But they do feel Mills and Boon type romance, of the Cherish, Sweet and Tender variety.  In my attempt to get published, I was wondering if a pocket novel would be a quicker or easier way (though by no means actually easy), plus something to add to my writing CV, and just getting a few short stories under my belt might make it easier for my 'novel' to be published... one day.

This story, although I liked it, didn't give the tenderness, the sensual feeling that seems to sizzle off the page like my favourite Mills and Boon author, Liz Fielding achieves. At times I felt I was being told more than shown, I think, because I didn't quite believe it. 

Anyway, I am 'working' even if I'm not writing.  I do feel a bit in limbo with that at the moment, not really finding what to start on next, with the 7th assignment hanging over me.  Tonight, I even opened up the last story I want to complete for my fan fiction series... just to give the characters (my hero and heroine there) a happy ending.  Thought it would be good practise too.  It is romance after all.

If you follow my Twitter and Facebook, you'll know I'm reading Stephen King On Writing, so getting some useful tips there, and inspiration.  So while my RSI is aggravating me, my 7th Assignment haunts me, I am trying to further my writing career.  I am here, in some shape or form doing something, even if it's lessening my magazine pile. 

And just sitting here, reading this back, I've thought of another article - about RSI actually - although have no idea where I would send it.

Wednesday 9 February 2011

Little Ones Concepts


Today, both of my children have come out with howlers. 

Yes, it is true once you have kids you can never visit the toilet in peace, and as I was pulling up my jeans, my youngest, Kieran (nearly 4) said, "Mummy you can have a willy now, now I'm not a baby."

I did reply, "I'm a girl, and girls don't have one."  Trying to stifle my laughter.  And I certainly can't grow one!


So then at tea time, my eldest, Ben (6), keeps talking about marrying his brother.  Not sure where the whole marriage thing is coming from but he keeps saying he wants to marry Kieran. Tonight was not the first time it's been raised.

I tell him (on so many levels) that it is actually illegal.  I mean, they're siblings, they're not even 18 yet, and also, I still believe gay marriage is unacceptable by law in the UK - though sometimes I actually think if two people want to commit to be together - what is the difference what 'sex' they are?  Okay the church don't have to do it, but a registry office (?) - I digress, and obviously didn't go down that conversation with my son. 

Anyway, in the best way that I can to a six-year old I explain that marriage is for those who love each other ... and want to spend the rest of their lives together (usually), etc. etc. etc.

"But I love Kieran," he replies.

Bless. I'll remind him of that the next time he tells me Kieran is annoying him.

I can imagine some of the fights as they get older, I'll be splitting up fisty-cuffs and punch ups.  Hmmm ...  Maybe when he's fifteen and telling me he hates his younger brother (through possibly a bloody nose), I'll remind him that aged six he wanted to marry him.

Or when he brings his first girlfriend home ... 

Just thought I'd share.  Life with two boys is interesting.

Now if only I could turn this into some fun article... where would I send it?

Tuesday 8 February 2011

Making Time For Magazines

Tonight I'd thought I'd tackle my 7th Assignment. I've read three of the modules, I started reading the last and had to give up half way through.  Eyes are just tired, going in one eye and out the other - see what I did there?

I'd also read some more of my friends children's book draft, and read a chunk of Stephen King On Writing.

My RSI has flared up, especially in my right arm, so yes, I shouldn't really be typing this.

I have three pieces I need to do for this next assignment, I've thought of one, a humorous piece about bottling patience.  Haven't the foggiest where to send it, where it would be suitable and obviously will need to edit to suit a house style. Somewhere interested in rambling mothers ideally. 

My problem is I need to make time for magazines. I am currently on February issue of Writing Magazine, March has already arrived! (I never get this one month ahead thing - someone somewhere started that off didn't they, thinking it would make their magazine stand out as more up to date than the others - we'll be reading June next in December).  I want to catch up with this particular magazine because I subscribe to it, and I have found it very useful for writing advice.

Then, I need to do 'research' and read magazines that I want to submit articles for.  This is where I FAIL! I'm trying to read more mags and less books - my 40 books this year may suffer, but so be it.  Even so, things seem to get in the way - particularly housework!  But reading magazines is a slow process, too.

I'm trying to focus on a few, so I'm not swamped - it's bloody expensive for an unpaid writer.  My favourite is Sainsburys Magazine - get some great recipes for half the price of The Good Food or Good Housekeeping.  And I really should start reading Runner's World, because all my running, I must come up with an article for them - right?  (Hubby subscribed to that one, so doesn't cost me anything).  Another one, my tutor recommended, is The Lady.  Apparently easier to get work accepted there.  So maybe that's what I need to do - focus.

I've got other women's mags: Women's Own, My Weekly, Take A Break, People's Friend... but those were mainly purchased for the fiction side of things.


Who decided there should only be 24 hours in a day?  And why do I need eight hours sleep?

Monday 7 February 2011

Book Review: Liars Waltz by Becky Black

Liar's WaltzLiar's Waltz by Becky Black

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Firstly, I'm not really a m/m romance reader - but Becky Black does know this - so I'm not sure if I'm the best person to review a m/m genre title. 



But I do like a good romance, with plenty of conflicts, and this story gives us this. 



I do agree with some of the reviews, there was a lack of the sci-fi world I know Becky can create.  However, it has plenty of action in and out of the bedroom - and I'm not just taking about the sex!



It has great pace all the way through, and an ending that makes you want to keep turning the page (metaphorically as this is an ebook!) or scrolling.



It's an angsty, roller-coaster ride of emotions. I felt empathy for both Greg and Karl, and at one point I really did have a lump in my throat.



If you like fit men, in uniform, or out of it, (and you're into m/m romance) this is the book for you.



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Thursday 3 February 2011

Does This Make It Official?

I got my first rejection letter today.  

I've had some stuff either not answered via email, or an email back saying they're not wanting this type of article current, but this was a rejection letter from People's Friend for a short story I sent, titled Love Will Find You.  Sent back in my SAE.  I knew by the thickness of the envelope it said rejection.  They wouldn't send it back if they wanted it - would they?  Apparently not strong enough.  Which, maybe I can see their point, but it's around 1700 words and meant to be more sweet.  Maybe I need to get to the action quicker... I don't know.


So at least I feel officially a writer... still not a published one yet!

I think I feel ultra miserable about it all as it's you know, red bus time and all that, and I'm just extra suicidal and murderous this time of the month.  Good job I wasn't wheeling a knife when the postman came to the door!

I'll take a look at it again and maybe try Woman's Weekly as My Weekly aren't taking on new short story authors.

And the other thing, now that I am a writer, and trying to be more open about it, when asked what my novel is about I should NOT reply, "Oh, um, this woman has to go to a wedding but doesn't want to, and, oh, um, this guy gets talked into going with her, and oh..." change the subject quickly.


For some reason I go all shy (yeah - me shy?) and stupid, and can't spit words out, and think as I'm telling them about it I'm making it sound crap.  I need more confidence!  A little cheque from The People's Friend would have done it... but we won't go there.

Wednesday 2 February 2011

January Was The Month To Catch Up

February means knuckle down.  

But, I still haven't quite pulled my finger out yet and started writing something else.   It is only day two in the Big Writery House.  Don't beat yourself up yet!

The February edition of Writing Magazine short story competition, due March is a ghost story theme, and I've thought of something there - ish.  I do need to look at Assignment 7, but I wanted to tie up some loose ends.  One being reading through a story for a friend, who is reading through The Wedding Favour for me.  She's a fellow Writer's Bureau pal and her story is aimed at children (9-12 pre-teens).  Not sure how much advice I'm going to be able to give, but happy to read it and see if the story is working, the plot flows and all that, there's no WTF? moments etc.  (which is what she's doing for me).

Then, I also want to read Liars Waltz by Becky Black (which is a pseudonym) - she's a friend who got me into this writing mess in the first place, and is an inspiration to me in some ways.  Liars Waltz is her first published novel (I've read practically all of her fan fiction and original stories she's created through NaNoWriMo) and hope that one day I might be joining her as a published author.  It is a m/m romance, which isn't really my genre of writing or reading, but I like her style - and she's a friend!  I'm open minded and romance is romance at the end of the day.  Her stories are also set in 'Science Fiction Land'.  She's my next best thing to Rob Grant/Red Dwarf... only with more sex.  Rimmer probably would have liked to have had sex... but that's another story.

Oh and I have one more module of my coursework to read... so I've got a lot of reading to do.

So that's it.  I still haven't heard from Woman's Weekly or The People's Friend, and not sure how long I have to wait.  Isn't it a similar question to how long is a piece of string?

Before Christmas I'd emailed Tescos and Sainsbury's magazine, and neither have returned my email, so will have to rethink there for two articles I've created.

I keep worrying I'm doing something wrong... like my email must make me appear to have two heads or something.  But I think I'm doing everything right.  Apart from writing the perfect article.

So another on my list to do is make time for more magazine reading!

And can you believe, today, off to collect my son from preschool I came up with a hare-brained idea of a sequel to The Wedding Favour... wanting to tell Cassie's story.  She's a bit of a fruit loop, it would be so much fun! Though I already have the next novel in mind I'd like to write... but maybe I should at least write up some notes - huh?